Ford Ranger

The Ranger is a big, charismatic pickup for people with an active holiday in mind. A 2.0 turbodiesel, all-wheel drive, a low-range transfer case — on paper it sounds serious, and in reality it lives up to it: it takes the dirt track to a lesser-known beach where a sedan would turn back. Under the tonneau, the bed holds two SUPs, bikes and a group's gear. Inside it's no longer a "work truck" but a thoroughly modern cabin: leather, decent multimedia, sound insulation almost like an SUV's. The downsides are standard for a pickup: size, city parking, and higher fuel use than mid-size crossovers. People rent it for outings and surf trips. Rented for active island holidays and for hauling boards and gear.

The Ranger's big advantage over crossovers is the open bed, which forgives what you'd rather not carry inside: wet wetsuits, sandy gear, bicycles, surfboards. It all goes in the back, and the cabin stays clean and dry. The double cab is fully usable, too — four adults sit in comfort — so this isn't purely a work vehicle but an all-rounder for an active group that spends the day off-road and the evening heading somewhere nice for dinner.

The all-wheel drive with low range isn't just for show: turn-offs to wild beaches, dirt tracks washed out in the rainy season, and steep climbs to photo spots, the Ranger takes them in its stride. The price is fuel use of around 9–10 litres of diesel per 100 km and a substantial footprint that demands attention and experience in Phuket Town's tight lanes and Patong's packed car parks. Cover the bed with a tonneau or roller shutter when it rains, and don't leave valuables in it while parked. The typical renter is surfers, divers, photographers and active travellers who need a vehicle that'll carry both people and a mountain of gear where an ordinary crossover simply can't go.

Please note: child seats and accessories are not included in the rental price and are provided for an additional fee — please check availability when booking.